on June 9, 2020
UTICA — St. Marianne’s West Side Boutique is sponsoring a summer “Sneaker Donation Program” to help men, women and children in need. The program will run through June, July and August.
“All sneaker sizes are needed,” Outreach Coordinator Nancy Robert noted, adding:
“Walking is often the only means of transportation for homeless and low-income individuals. In addition to providing comfort and protection, shoes help prevent many foot-related medical ailments. A good pair of shoes enhances the quality of life and improves self-confidence.”
To donate new or gently used sneakers, she said, “contact us via email” at mail@westsidekitchen.org. “Your contribution will be greatly appreciated!”
As an arm of Mother Marianne’s West Side Kitchen, the boutique provides clothing and personal care items to soup kitchen patrons and others in need. Volunteers are in the process of cleaning and painting the boutique rooms in anticipation of re-opening as pandemic restrictions are lifted. The soup kitchen has remained open but converted to providing meals to go. The ministries are housed in the parish center at St. Joseph-St. Patrick Church